Robert T. Palmer

Palmer Robert T., age 88, of Burnsville, was born 1/23/14 in Ceylon, MN, son of Ida Personius and Ben H. Palmer. Loving husband and father to wife of 53 years, Rose, and children, Richard (Susan) of Jacksonville, FL, Roberta (Richard) Schmidt of Orono, MN, Mary (Tom) Fox of Wheeling, WV and Raymond (Janice) of Minneapolis, MN; grandchildren Amy Johnson, Dan, Robert and Michael Palmer, Brian and John Schmidt, Rhea and Emma Palmer, Chris, Tom and Steve Fox; eight great-grandchildren; brothers Al (Dolores) of Robbinsdale, Dorrance (Georgia) of Moses Lake, WA, and sister Lu Ann (Rick) Williamson of Eden Prairie; also many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. Preceded in death by sisters Marion and Lois and brothers Ray, George, Ben, Lester and Sheryl Lee. Robert was an accomplished pilot and flight instructor, talents he put to use in the service of his country as a member of the Army Air Corps during World War II. During his 25 years in the Minneapolis Fire Department, Robert rose through the ranks, serving as Captain of the Rescue Squad, training school director, Chief of the Fire Prevention Bureau, Minneapolis Fire Marshall, and District Chief. He was also director of Civil Defense in charge of fire and rescue. In addition, he was the Executive Secretary of the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Assn for 20 years, a charter member of the Minnesota Rescue and First Aid Assn, and an emeritus member of American Legion Fire and Police Post #396, having been a member for 55 years. After his outstanding Fire Department career, he spent 15 years at North Memorial Medical Center as aide to the president, establishing their safety and security department and as corporate pilot. Robert was active in many other civic professional organizations as well. During retirement, Robert traveled with Rose to visit friends and family around the country. Cruising to Alaska and other spots around the globe together became a special pleasure to them. Service Wed 10:00 am, Washburn-McReavy, Nokomis Park Chapel, 1838 E M'haha Parkway (at Cedar Ave). Visitation Tuesday 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Contributions may be sent to Fairview Hospice with special thanks for the loving care provided by Ruth, Pat, Ann and many others, or donors choice. Washburn-McReavy Nokomis Park Chapel 612-721-1651

Published on January 19, 2003